On Friday, 10th July 2026, the Apne Aap Women’s Collective organised a ceremony to felicitate 100 women. These women had successfully completed the Beautician Training Programme. As a result, they received certificates marking this achievement.
About the Initiative
SBI Foundation supports this initiative. Its goal is simple: to help women in Mumbai’s red-light districts build healthier, safer, and more dignified lives. It does this through holistic support and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Specifically, the project works with women in Kamathipura, Falkland Road, and Turbhe. It provides:
- Regular awareness sessions on health, rights, financial literacy, and wellbeing
- Monthly medical check-ups
- Access to government and social welfare schemes
- Vocational skill development
In addition, girls living in the residential hostel receive STEM education. This broadens their future opportunities.
The Beautician Training Programme
One key component is a professional beautician training programme. It’s designed for women above 18 years of age. The objective is threefold: to equip them with employable skills, to support them in finding meaningful work, and to create viable alternatives to sex work. Ultimately, this helps them build independent and dignified futures.
The vocational training focuses on professional beautician skills. It’s open to women aged 18 and above who live in or are connected with red-light areas.
The course combines practical beauty and wellness techniques with essential soft skills. These include workplace etiquette, customer service, communication, confidence building, and entrepreneurship. So, the aim goes beyond teaching a skill — it also prepares women to succeed in the beauty and wellness industry, whether through employment or self-employment.
Placement and Real-World Impact
Placement remains a critical part of this initiative. Currently, women are already offering beauty services from the training facility. Apne Aap Women’s Collective established this facility with SBI Foundation’s support. Furthermore, these women are bringing in customers from their own networks.
In Her Words
Abhilasha Rawat, CEO, AAWC, said:
“SBI Foundation is the principal supporter of this project. Their financial support has enabled us to design and implement a comprehensive programme that addresses healthcare, awareness, livelihood, and social inclusion. Beyond funding, SBI Foundation has demonstrated a commitment to investing in women who are often among the most marginalized, excluded, and stigmatized members of society. Their partnership reflects a shared belief that every woman deserves the opportunity to live with dignity, safety, and economic independence.”
27 Years of Trust in the Community
AAWC has built deep trust within these communities. In fact, these relationships span nearly three decades. The team selected participants based on several factors. For instance, these include interest in pursuing an alternative livelihood, motivation to complete the programme, availability to attend regular sessions, aptitude, and readiness to transition towards a new career.
Ultimately, this selection process ensures something important: women who are committed, and likely to benefit from the opportunity, receive the support they need to succeed.